KUALA LUMPUR, 11 May 2026 (The Capital Post) — CIMB Bank Berhad and CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad have introduced the SME Stabilisation Relief Facility (SRF) to provide targeted financial assistance to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) affected by rising operating costs, supply chain disruptions and market uncertainties linked to the ongoing West Asia conflict.
The facility is part of Bank Negara Malaysia’s RM5 billion relief measures aimed at helping businesses maintain operations during the challenging economic environment. Through the SRF, eligible MSMEs will be able to access additional working capital financing to support short-term liquidity needs, including inventory purchases, operating expenses and overall business continuity.
Priority for the financing support will be given to businesses operating in sectors that are highly dependent on oil, crude-based products and diesel. CIMB also said assistance may be extended to businesses facing difficulties sourcing supplies from countries directly impacted by the conflict, which has disrupted operations and supply chains.
CIMB Group Commercial Banking Co-Chief Executive Officer, Ahmad Shazli Kamarulzaman said MSMEs continue to play a vital role in sustaining the economy and supporting local communities.
He noted that many businesses are currently operating under difficult conditions due to increasing costs and supply chain challenges, affecting their daily operations and cash flow management. According to him, the SRF initiative is designed to provide practical support, strengthen resilience and offer greater flexibility for businesses to manage financial commitments during this period.
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Applications for the SRF will open from 15 May until 31 December 2026, or until the facility is fully utilised. Backed by funding from Bank Negara Malaysia and government guarantee schemes administered by Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia (CGC) and Syarikat Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan Berhad (SJPP), the financing facility offers up to RM750,000 with a tenure of up to five years at a maximum financing rate of 3.75 per cent per annum, inclusive of guarantee fees.
In addition to the SRF, CIMB will continue assisting affected SME customers through its existing Payment Assistance Programme (PAP), which provides flexible repayment arrangements to ease immediate financial commitments and improve financial flexibility for businesses.
Businesses seeking further assistance or information on the support measures can obtain application forms through CIMB’s website and OCTO app, contact their relationship managers or visit CIMB branches nationwide. – The Capital Post
